How to describe your “Ideal Boss” at an interview…
Every boss wants employees who “work well with others”, but the truth is it takes two to tango.
Interviewers often bring up one question in particular to get a better idea of whether you and them would work well together. And it’s some version of:
“What would your ideal boss be like?” or “Describe your ideal boss.”, etc.
But while this one question is fairly common, it has many different (and sometimes uncommon) replies.
Why is this question important?
As a jobseeker, you constantly need to do two things when interacting with potential employers.
The first is to reinforce the value you can bring to their business. And the second is to separate yourself from other jobseekers.
This question offers you a chance to do both!
So from your perspective, your answer is an opportunity to prove you’re a perfect match for the job.
But from the employers perspective, it also allows them to make sure that you and their management team are going to be a good match, too. And that makes everyone’s work more enjoyable, and productive.
How should I answer this question?
First of all, it’s important that you answer firmly and resolutely!
By preparing your answer and giving a thoughtful reply, you show your recruiter that you take the situation seriously, and have the experience to know what you want.
And, while some of your answer may overlap with other job seekers’, it’s also important that you try to define yourself as much as possible.
You should avoid using too many (if any) cliche or general statements like a boss with “strong communication, good leadership, etc.” and instead try to explain the specific traits in a leader that you most value.
Because “communication” means different things to different people. And “leadership” can look a lot different from leader to leader.
So here are 5 factors to being a boss that you should consider more closely, that you can use to craft your own unique reply! Think about what type of approach would work best for you, coming from your manager.
1. Involvement
How involved with your work do you want your boss to be?
On one hand, you could prefer a lot of freedom to do your work your way, and to be trusted when trying new solutions.
But you also might prefer a boss that is with you every step of the way, who monitors your progress closely and offers lots of feedback.
2. Communication
What style of communication works best between you and a boss?
You might prefer that they are extremely professional, and keep everything formal. Someone who is always extremely careful with their words around staff and clients.
Or, you might prefer someone who is more open, honest, and frank. Someone who doesn’t waste words, and always says exactly what they are thinking.
3. Company Culture
What sort of culture do you want your boss to cultivate?
Maybe you want a highly structured workplace with a clear sense of hierarchy. Where everyone stays in their lane so they can all get where they’re going as efficiently as possible.
Or maybe you want a workplace that puts fun first. Where people joke, play, and whistle while they work.
4. Recognition
How do you want your achievements to be recognized by your boss?
Do you want to be recognized or rewarded at every turn, as often as after each task?
Or do you want to be acknowledged only when something truly remarkable happens, if at all?
And do you want your recognition to be public, or discrete?
5. Future outlook
How do you want your boss to balance stability and mobility?
Would you like a boss who wants to maintain the status quo, by holding true to their directives and placing a steady hand at the company helm?
Or one who wants to champion change and development, always looking for a better tomorrow for them and their team?
Conclusion
By figuring out where you stand on each of these 5 factors, you can craft a custom reply that’ll impress interviewers everytime!
For more interview tips, stay tuned for weekly articles — or come visit META for one on one support!
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